Where candidates stand on public schools

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A look at some of the specific proposals by John R. Connolly and Martin J. Walsh to improve Boston’s public schools.

Overhauling high schools

Connolly: Pitched a “Hubs of Opportunity” proposal that would partner high schools with universities, community-based organizations, businesses, or trade unions to create a college or career pathway for students.

Walsh: Unveiled a multiprong plan that calls for 9th- and 10th-grade academies, individualized achievement plans for each student, and academic and career pathways for each 11th- and 12th- graders.

Facilities

Connolly: A “Building Blocks” proposal would offer commercial or residential developers fast-track permitting in exchange for funding school construction or renovation projects.

Walsh: Would establish a Boston school building oversight council, which would oversee school construction instead of the School Department to ensure projects move swiftly.

Student assignment

Connolly: “As mayor I will finish the job of reforming student assignment by supporting strategies to increase quality schools citywide and guaranteeing a kindergarten seat close to home and a K-8 pathway for every student.”

Walsh: “Progress toward the September 2014 implementation of the BPS student assignment plan will be monitored, and an ombudsman office for the plan will be created in City Hall to ensure that parents have access to schools closer to home.”